New Testament
Matthew 14:24
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Meanwhile, the boat was already far out on the lake, battered by the waves because the wind was blowing against them.
Compare translations
But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary.
What Matthew 14:24 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see the disciples struggling in a boat on the lake, facing strong winds and rough waves. The phrase 'battered by the waves' indicates that they were in a difficult and dangerous situation. The wind was against them, making their journey harder. This scene illustrates the challenges and obstacles we often face in life. Just as the disciples were caught in a storm, we too can find ourselves in tough circumstances that seem overwhelming. The boat being far out on the lake suggests that they were isolated and far from help, emphasizing their vulnerability. This moment sets the stage for a significant event where Jesus comes to them, demonstrating His power over nature and His care for those in distress. It reminds us that even in our struggles, we are not alone, and help can come in unexpected ways.
How to apply Matthew 14:24 to your life
When facing life's storms, remember that challenges can strengthen your faith. Just as the disciples were not alone in their struggle, you too have support. Seek help from God and others during tough times, trusting that relief will come.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Walking on the Water (Matthew 14:22–33)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Matthew 14:24
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Matthew 14:24
Related Bible verses
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 14:24 mean?
Matthew 14:24 describes the disciples in a boat struggling against strong winds and waves on the lake. This verse highlights their difficult situation and the challenges they faced, symbolizing the struggles we encounter in life.
What is the significance of the wind being contrary in Matthew 14:24?
The wind being contrary in Matthew 14:24 emphasizes the obstacles and difficulties the disciples faced. It serves as a metaphor for the challenges we encounter, reminding us that we may face resistance in our journeys.
What does 'battered by the waves' mean in Matthew 14:24?
The phrase 'battered by the waves' in Matthew 14:24 indicates that the disciples' boat was being violently tossed around by the rough waters. It illustrates the severity of their situation and the danger they were in.
How can I apply Matthew 14:24 to my life?
You can apply Matthew 14:24 by recognizing that, like the disciples, you may face tough times. It encourages you to seek help and trust that support can come, even in unexpected ways.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.